Although we may have common interests and a positive hope for the future, we frequently yield to the temptation of viewing other people as opponents, thereby resulting in an “us versus them” philosophy. My proposal is to not choose sides in addressing issues.

 

Rather than viewing others involved in addressing controversial issues as opponents, why not consider then as possible partners and/or potential allies to help resolve even long-standing issues. I believe our long-term goals are similar, and maybe even the same, and it clearly seems counterproductive to waste time fighting a potential team-mate, or even your current partner.

 

Consider the possibility of having the two sides working together as a single unit to find a mutually beneficial resolution. Doesn’t it just make more sense to recognize that the potential outcome of a team working together will always be greater than the outcome of two sides working in opposition?

 

Moving a community forward can easily be recognized by reflecting on how far we have progressed in the last quarter or half century. Some may set their ego’s aside momentarily, to see the true outcome.